Reservoirs: 'The situation is critical,' says Patrick Assirvaden

The Minister of Energy has raised the alarm over the alarming drop in water levels in reservoirs across the country. Following a field visit on Monday with technicians and water management officials, he stated that "the situation is critical," referencing a drought of unprecedented severity not seen in over a century.

He indicated that some reservoirs could reach a concerning capacity of only 22 to 23% by mid to late June, complicating pumping efforts due to sediment accumulation at the bottom. The Minister has asked the Central Water Authority to prepare a restriction plan to preserve the available reserves.

Patrick Assirvaden clarified that these emergency measures should not be confused with the "Marshall Plan" previously presented to the government. According to him, this program is part of a long-term strategy to modernize water management, while the proposed restrictions are a response to the immediate crisis due to the declining reservoir levels.

The Minister also urged the population, businesses, and the agricultural sector to act responsibly in their water consumption. He emphasized that authorities must act swiftly in the coming days to slow the depletion of stocks, while awaiting rainfall that could relieve the pressure on the country’s water resources.

He finally noted that compared to last year, the current deficit in the reservoirs represents between 10 and 12 million cubic meters of water, confirming the seriousness of the situation.